I am so excited about the BookFest First Place Award for 2022 in Historical Christian Fiction.

You deserve to read an award-winning novel for Christmas. https://www.amazon.com/Labor-Love-Gardens-Marguerite-Martin/dp/1951839501/ref

Amid the beauty of the gardens at Pitti Palace, evil schemes attempt to spoil the lives of the Medici household.

Although Ana Geovani joined the Medici household eight years before as a distant cousin and companion to the young daughters, she still has moments of doubt about her role and place among the princely Medici. Her future in the family is uncertain with the marriage of her cousin. Unfortunately, her own marriage looms as an evil reminder of her status under the direction of her relatives. Fear and lack of a voice dominate her days while surrounded by the magnificent splendor of the gardens.

Marco Rossi brings secrets with his new post as an undergardener at Pitti Palace. He yearns to learn from master architects and gardeners employed by Cosimo Medici. Yet, his other quest concerns him, for he commits to spying on the daughter of his neighbor. The cost of being less than honest spoils his relationship with Ana. With God’s tug on his heart, reminding him of a bigger plan, Marco considers the consequences of challenging a Medici member.

The desires of the men and women both royal and common, create costly dilemmas and potential disasters of the heart and soul. Will their labors of love overcome the prevailing morality of the Middle Ages? 

Enjoy the journey through one of the most impressive gardens in Europe!